By Erewunmi Peace

The Niger State Government has directed residents living in settlements around the Kainji Lake area to vacate the region within a period of two months, citing rising insecurity.

The directive was issued by the state government as part of ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities in forested and hard-to-reach areas of the state.

According to the government, some criminal elements have been using the Kainji Lake axis and surrounding forests as hideouts, posing serious security threats to nearby communities.

Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, through an official statement by his Chief Press Secretary, explained that the evacuation order is aimed at enabling security agencies to effectively flush out criminals without risking harm to innocent civilians.

The governor also assured affected residents that arrangements would be made for their resettlement, with the Emirate Council expected to play a key role in coordinating the relocation process.

Kainji Lake, which spans parts of Niger and Kebbi states, has in recent years been affected by security challenges linked to banditry and other criminal activities. The state government says the temporary evacuation is necessary to restore peace and ensure long-term safety in the area.

Residents have been advised to cooperate with government authorities and security agencies during the relocation period.